Dr. Matthew Harrison: Digital Solutions for Inclusive Leadership

In this episode, Emily and Dave sit down with Dr. Matthew Harrison, a seasoned educator and digital innovator. Matt’s journey from an accidental teacher to a champion of neurodiversity and inclusion unveils the unexpected ways gaming can foster social skills and empowerment.

Matt’s passion for utilizing technology to enhance social capacity building, belonging, and inclusion in education comes to the forefront. As a gamer himself, he sheds light on the transformative power of gaming in developing crucial social skills, ranging from turn-taking to effective communication. Through personal anecdotes and insights, he emphasizes how gaming can be a potent tool for leadership development, paving the way for a more inclusive society.

The conversation takes a deep dive into the concept of "gaming for good." Matt discusses the innovative initiative, Next Level Collaboration—a program that employs cooperative video games to empower neurodivergent children. With co-founder and Next Level Collaboration CEO, Jess Rowlings, they not only bring lived experience to the table but also a vision for using gaming to boost confidence and social capabilities in young individuals. This venture showcases how unconventional approaches can lead to remarkable outcomes in education and leadership.

Beyond gaming, the discussion expands to the significance of accessibility in leadership. Dr. Harrison provides practical insights for leaders and organizations to make workplaces more accessible and inclusive, highlighting the untapped potential of existing accessibility features within common tools and platforms. His emphasis on understanding preferred communication styles and integrating technology underscores the importance of creating environments where everyone can thrive.

As the conversation wraps up, Emily and Dave reflect on the episode's key takeaways. Listeners are left with a fresh perspective on leadership—a reminder that fostering inclusion requires embracing diverse tools and strategies.

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